Have you ever wondered if we’re alone in the universe? In this Mini-Core course, you’ll take an interdisciplinary journey through astronomy, biology and planetary science that explores this very question. Along the way, we will dive into the discovery of planets around other stars, the origins of life on Earth and the prospects for finding it elsewhere. Guided by the famous Drake equation, this course will challenge you to collect evidence from multiple fields to estimate how many intelligent civilizations might currently share our galaxy. Using scientific habits of mind and real discoveries, you will gain both a big-picture perspective on our place in the cosmos and the quantitative skills to analyze complex problems.You'll finish not just as an observer, but also as an active participant, using today’s scientific methods to tackle the enduring question of life beyond Earth.

This Mini-Core takes place over three Wednesdays: Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12. Refreshments will be provided.